Orange County, CA. The name itself conjures up images of Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, Republicans, and Huntington Beach. When you think of fashion companies in Orange County, the names of Quicksilver, Roxy, Billabong, Oakley roll off your tongue. Fashion design is pretty much limited to surf and skate inspired clothing. But perhaps that is about to change...
Breaking that mold, a new collection has emerged from the OC, 2627-Line. The line, created by designer Maria Lopez, is also breaking the mold for herself personally as well. As former Vice President of Design at St. John, she designed for their celebrity and politician clientele excelling in creating not only their signature suited looks, but also crafting their elegant evening wear. But when she left in 2008, she wanted to create a line that reflected more of what she wears.
The line consists of hoodies, sweatshirts, T-shirts, dresses and leggings in a color palette dominated by black, white, taupe, grey and just a shot of color with a slightly faded ruby. Although the line reflects the California relaxed lifestyle, it has an urban edge to it that makes it sleek and sexy. Ms. Lopez has designed the line for “the contemporary woman who is self confident and has her own fashion sense. She isn’t overly concerned with being trendy, but rather wants to put together a look that is flattering and easy to wear”.
This is the type of clothing that dependent upon how it is worn, can take you from day through evening and is not defined by age or body type. It is the type of clothing worn by celebrities, but is perfect on the everyday woman as well. As Ms. Lopez puts it, “it’s classic clothing with a modern twist. I love the fact women can now dress down and look still very chic and put together for a 9-5 career.”
Fabrications run from MicroModal, vintage wash fleece and French terry to cashmere. The feel of the fabric was very important to Ms. Lopez and she worked endlessly with a wash house to get just the right softness. “I want the line to feel comfortable and luxurious at the same time”, said Ms.
Lopez. They are also “no-fuss” fabrics making them easy to wear and easy to pack for trips
I spoke to Ms. Lopez as she returned from a photoshoot for next years Spring line. “Expect a little more color for Spring. While I will still have the classic colors of black, white and grey, there will also be a muted khaki, a soft sky blue and a mink shade of brown”. The fabrications will also expand to include stretch cotton denim, a laminated heathered linen, stretch linen and an angora/cotton blend.
The Fall 2010 will be hitting the stores in the beginning of September, with
prices starting around $65 for a T-shirt and going up to around $200.
You will find 2627-Line at American Rag, Cie. in Newport Beach, CA and also the Los Angeles store. It will also be carried online by the shopping site Moxsie.
By Mdivani Monroe Photos by New Vision Studio
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